Finding clarity on your desires are so important when it comes to manifesting. When we focus on our finances, many of our own limiting beliefs can be the very thing that is blocking us. One of the major catalyst to making quantum leaps in your manifesting practice is shifting your money mindset. In the Money Miracle Manifestation Course, we pin point our money blocks and work with different tools to help us shift our money mindset. Below I highlight three key principles to practice when you begin shifting your money mindset from a scarcity mindset to an abundant one.

The Magic In Shifting Your Money Mindset

There are so many components that affect our Money Mindset. We all come to the table with different triumphs and traumas, and because of this, our money blockages show up differently. Some of us have had toxic imprinting when it comes to money and earning, others have never had to worry about money but still feel dissatisfied. So how do we untangle this mess? Finding clarity can be tricky when we don’t even know where to start. Some questions that I like to start out and ask myself are:

” What do I feel like my soul is craving?”

“What currently excites me the most?”

“How have my finances affected my happiness?”

“Where do I feel tension in my body when I think about my finances?”

“Am I on the path towards my passions?”

“Am I doing what I really want to be doing/creating”

Dismantle Your Childhood beliefs Regarding Money

As children, we are constantly gathering information and sometimes, even when our parents may mean well, the belief systems that are imprinted onto us may sometime become more toxic than intended.

Having such a limited belief about money, manifesting and the abundance of money that is constantly available to me- can hold you back a lot in life.

I will be the first to acknowledge my privilege that I experienced in my childhood. However, no matter how comfortable my experience was, I was constantly witnessing my Mother worry about bills, spending money and was constantly stressed. I was taught to value money in order to obtain a favorable or desired experience. As you can imagine, this was a very restrictive way to experience money and abundance. Not only was it limiting, it also didn’t feel good. My relationship with money was a huge rollercoaster. I always felt this sense of “lack” and just couldn’t figure out how to get back, “on top”. The major key principle that I implemented into my life was shifting my mindset.

How Do We Dismantle Beliefs?

Dismantling old beliefs that don’t serve you is complicated and can become overwhelming. First off- take a huge breath, YOU GOT THIS. I cover this more in depth in the Money Miracle Manifestation Course, however I would love to share with you some of the tips that helped me dismantle some old, toxic beliefs regarding my Money Story.

Take a moment to meditate on some of the phrases or sayings you heard your parents/ caregivers say in regards to finances and money

As you think of these sayings and phrases, ask yourself – would Adult You accept those beliefs today? Why or why not?

Understand that many of our fear-based beliefs usually aren’t our own

Explore new avenues and create new beliefs. You let someone else’s belief control how you view money and finances for so long- it’s time to give yourself permission to change that view point and create a whole new story/ experience

Create your own money mantras, look up money manifestation affirmations that align with you. Be as creative as you want to be here!

Change Your Money Story

Whether you feel financially secure and maybe you’re just getting by or maybe you’re in the middle of complicated debt, the first step is finding clarity within the present moment. Ask yourself how you currently feel about your situation.

Once we have been truly honest and identified how we feel in the present moment, we can then open an entire new door to create a new story/reality/ circumstance for ourselves.

Before- I used to tell myself the story I had to work extremely hard just to make enough to get by. Even though that may have been my current state- I also identified that it made me feel very “less than” because of it. Once I changed my story to, “ Everything that is coming to me supports me and my journey and I have the willingness and capacity to accept more abundance and more finances” – I began to notice shifts. I changed the dialogue in my head and how I was perceiving my reality.

Begin to Love Money

Money feels the same way about you that you feel about it! You cannot genuinely build a positive money mindset if you have constant negative feelings towards money.

You are SO allowed to experience and enjoy wealth and abundance !

Many times when we feel disconnected, it seems like an impossible task to begin the work if recalibration gets your system and changing your approach to your blockages. I totally understand- been there MANY times!

Here’s the beautiful part – this isn’t an overnight process’s give yourself props for being curious about what’s holding you back and looking for tools to ease they process. Acknowledging our perceived, “weaknesses”, isn’t an easy (or fun) task. It takes vulnerability to admit we may not have it all together and we may not have all the answers. It takes control and accountability to implement positive changes and rituals/habits. No matter where you are in your journey, start where you are at. Your only competing with your future version of yourself.

If you follow Activated Living on social media you have probably heard this before – healing is NOT linear. Healing and navigating your money story doesn’t have a point A to B. There are ups and downs, and beautiful spaces that show us sometimes, what we perceive to be our weakness is actually our biggest strength.

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Many people turn to alcohol when they need cheering up but it only serves as a band-aid solution for a far serious problem, and in fact, can lead to more problems both physically and mentally. A lot of addiction treatment centers have recommended lowering the intake of alcohol down to a few glasses per week in order to avoid incurring mental issues.

Alcohol Changes Brain Chemistry

Our brain functions thanks in part to the critical balance of chemicals like hormones and neurotransmitters. Alcohol, being a depressant, can disrupt that balance and affect our thoughts, feelings, and actions. In some cases, it causes so much damage to the brain’s process that the damage becomes permanent. You might feel relaxed when you are under the influence of alcohol but that’s a sign that it is affecting the function of neurotransmitters. Alcohol dulls the effects of those chemical signals which is why we feel less anxious and a lot looser when we drink.

Alcohol Can Increase Stress + Anxiety

It is common for many to think that alcohol can be a solution to the stress and anxiety we feel in life. But this has been proven to be wrong. While one glass of wine after a particularly long day can ease the tension and help you relax, too much alcohol consumption can lead to feelings of depression and increase one’s anxiety. Long-term alcohol consumption can also exacerbate the stress in life. This is due to the fact that alcohol can lead to the suppression of many of the brain’s neurotransmitters the proper functioning of which is crucial for good mental health.

Alcohol Can Contribute to Depression

As mentioned previously, alcohol is a major factor in our feelings of depression. Drinking heavily and for too long can put you at risk for developing signs of depression. The brain chemistry is already disrupted due to the large amounts of alcohol in the system and the permanent damage it has already caused in the brain. Alcohol also lowers the level of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain, a chemical signal that helps regulate our mood. It is given the fact that there is a correlation between low serotonin levels and the onset of depression.

Alcohol Can Damage Your Brain

Not only does alcohol affect brain chemistry, but it can also lead to neuron death which slows the brain’s processing power and impairs the formation of memory. Large intakes of alcohol can completely stop the brain from forming new memories, commonly known as a “blackout.” Blackouts per se don’t necessarily mean neurons are dying in the brain but repeated sessions of heavy drinking can eventually lead to cell death. Once a brain cell dies, it is very rare that they regenerate.

Lily Brooks is an avid blogger. She writes about a variety of topics including health, science, and literature. She is currently working with TheBeachesTreatmentCenter, a fully accredited & licensed Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment Center.

Anxiety and stress happens to us all on a certain degree. We are all complex beings with different backgrounds, beliefs, upbringings, and come with different variables of traumas and triumphs. For many people, cannabis is used as an ally for healing and rejuvenation. For others, they may be stuck to particular belief systems or already know that cannabis tends to provoke more anxiety rather than help ease it. All of those instances are perfectly ok. For those who want to look for holistic and compassionate forms for healing with cannabis, this article is for you.

On my previous post about navigating stress, Hannah talks about different forms of holistic and healthy ways to maneuver through stressful situations. Many people turn to cannabis as they seek out a plant form to help ease their anxiety. For me personally, I have been navigating through my therapy and PTSD, along with medicating holistically with cannabis, medicinal mushrooms, and several other forms of plant medicine. I’ve worked with prayer, meditation, medication and amazing therapists. Through this journey I have been able to successfully navigate through my emotions and day to day life.

What Is Anxiety?

Fear, stress, and anxiety are “normal feelings and experiences” that affect us all. However, once these feelings become more and more intense or seem to linger longer than normal, it may be time to look into finding some solutions to help ease your anxiety. Knowing the difference between normal feelings of anxiety and an anxiety disorder requiring medical attention can help a person identify and treat the condition.

Dr. Ethan Russo, who is the author of the book, Cannabinoids as Therapeutics , notes the potential effects of cannabis to ease anxiety and depression. In his book, Dr. Ethan Russo mentioned the healing properties of the cannabis plant that was used all the way back in 1500 B.C in India. The Chinese have used the cannabis plant to help with mental illnesses and pain management for hundreds of years. There are several forms of healing that this plant can offer due to the anti-inflammatory properties of the plant.

It’s important to note that cannabis affects us all differently. Over the course of the past few years as medical marijuana has become more readily available to patients, anxiety has been one of the top three reasons why patients seek out this medicine. Although there are plenty of studies on the medical use for cannabis, there still is not enough scientific evidence to prove that specific strains can ease specific ailments. Within the components of the cannabis plant, there are several hundred healing properties, cannabinoids, and terpenes. Within every strain of cannabis there are also several different components that make every strain unique and different. Below are my top three favorite strains I personally use that help with my anxiety.

Cannatonic

Cannatonic is a strain that’s great for those who are THC – sensitive. This cannabis strain typically has a higher percentage of CBD than THC which can aid in many healing properties. Cannatonic tends to also boast high levels of the terpene myrcene, which contributes to this strain’s deeply relaxing attributes. People that use cannatonic to help ease anxiety note that they feel a great sense of relaxation with happy and uplifted feelings. This strain has been noted to deeply enhance the mood. Increased optimism and feelings of positivity, tied together with boosts of energy have been noted as some of the effects from this strain, which makes it very desirable to help with anxiety.

Granddaddy Purple

Grand Daddy Purple has been noted to help with stress and anxiety. This strain helps ease you into a peaceful mindset while urging your body to release stress and tension. Like most heavy indica strains, Granddaddy Purple is typically suggested for consumers looking to combat pain, stress, insomnia, appetite loss, and muscle spasms. When consuming Granddaddy Purple, many patients note the blissful, relaxed body high.

Northern Lights

Northern Lights is a fairly easily-accessible strain you can find in almost any dispensary. This is one of the most popular indica-dominant cannabis strains. A sense of happiness and well-being also accompanies this effect. Many people notice the ultra relaxing and drowsy affects of this strain which is important to note that you do not make plans after consuming Northern Lights. Some users also use it to increase focus and creativity. This specific strain is used to help alleviate pain, help with acute and chronic insomnia, loss of appetite and anxiety.

Cannabis is a plant which has been used as a medicine for thousands of years. For those who are looking to help ease their anxiety in a holistic and natural form and incorporate plants as their medicine, these particular strains of cannabis may be the right strains for you. As with any plant used as medicine, be sure to listen to your body. You may find it helpful to experiment with different strains with variable concentrations and ratios until you find a strain that produces the effects you’re seeking.

Disclaimer:

Although I am speaking about my own personal experience, I am not a licensed therapist, doctor, or nutritionist. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your mental or physical health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.

Stress and anxiety are two of the most common mental health disorders that we all experience at some point in our life. For some, chronic anxiety is extremely common and is something they may experience on a daily or weekly basis. Currently, many people are looking for natural remedies to help ease stress and anxiety. Herbs are an excellent, natural source, full of healing medicine and power. Here are 3 herbal remedies for anxiety.

Why Are Herbs Important?

Before there were pharmaceuticals and big health corporations, our ancestors and those who came before us relied on plants and herbal remedies to ease any ailment. Herbs, plants and spices are packed with nutrition (as long as it comes from a good source), as well as antioxidants that can add therapeutic values to the food we eat. In many cultures, herbal medicine is still highly practiced and respected today. Herbal medicine involves the medicinal use of plants to treat disease and enhance general health and overall wellbeing. On a cellular level – herbs are important to our health as components for regeneration, rejuvenation, and creating balance if there are disturbances within the body.

Valerian

Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis) is a potent root to use to help aid in sleep disorders and anxiety. This perineal plant is known by other names as well such as: garden heliotrope, Valerianae radix, and Phu. The best way to consume Valerian root is through teas. Relaxation and calmness are promoted within the system due to Valerenic acid found in the root. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) binds with the valerenic acid and can ease you into a calm and relaxed state. The Valepotriates are also responsible for gently effecting the central nervous system. What makes this plant so medicinal and magical is it has the ability to act as a sedative for agitated patients, while stimulates someone who is suffering from fatigue. Studies suggest that valerian root may help address generalized anxiety disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The main symptoms include anxious behaviors and may aid in alleviating anxiety caused by stressful situations.

CautionsUse only as prescribed by your herbalist, naturopath, or qualified practitioner. Valerian has been noted to cause some people headaches, muscular spasms, and heart palpitation. Try to avoid large doses and prolonged use. Do not take valerian root if you’ll be driving or operating heavy machinery, as it can affect your thinking and reaction abilities. Avoid taking valerian root with alcohol as it can induce drowsiness. Those who experience liver-related problems should avoid valerian root.

Valerian Root should not be mixed with or used in conjunction with Kava, St. John’s Wort, Melatonin, Benzodiazepines like Xanax, Valium, Ativan and Halcion, Barbiturates or central nervous system (CNS) depressants like phenobarbital (Luminal), morphine and propofol (Diprivan).

I absolutely love sipping on Valerian tea to ease any anxiety I may be feeling. My favorite, USDA organic tea fromBuddha Teas can be ordered here.

Motherwort

Motherwort has an origin throughout Europe. This herb is especially aligned with women’s health which can aid in menstruation, labor and post-birth. It is also known to help ease anxiety. There are several forms to ingest Motherwort. There are tinctures available in almost any health food store, you can drink the tea up to three times a day, or you can simply infuse the dried cut up herbs. Motherwort also aids in nourishing the emotional heart too. Indicated for grief, anger and upset, this plant is said to give the heart of a lion – calm yet strong. For people who suffer from panic attacks, there have been several studies that found a decrease in anxiety in patients who took Motherwort regularly, especially before they felt a panic attack arise. Studies have shown that Motherwort also is an excellent aid in lowering cholesterol and triglycerides.

CautionsUse only as prescribed by your herbalist, naturopath, or qualified practitioner. Motherwort is not recommended for those who take anticoagulants and or blood thinners such as: aspirin, garlic, willow bark, vitamin E in supplement form. Do not ingest if you are someone with clotting a disorder. Pregnant and breast-feeding women should not use Motherwort since it can lead to uterine contractions and cause miscarriage. Motherwort is also a natural sedative. You should not take it with sedative medications or sleeping pills.

Whenever I’m traveling I always make sure to bring myMotherwort tincture from HawaiiPharm. It’s the perfect size. Typically I do 10 drops 3x a day when my body feels like it’s needing the calming medicinal effects of Motherwort.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm has been said to help ease anxiety and stress. This herb is in the mint family and is fairly common to find in any health food store or farmer’s market. Studies in the past suggest that a compound found in lemon balm (Rosmarinic acid) may produce anti-anxiety effects by increasing the availability of GABA (a signaling chemical) in the brain. When you combine Lemon Balm with Valerian root, the two herbs have an extremely relaxing and calming affect on the body and has been said to induce sleep for those who suffer from insomnia. Lemon balm also aids in enhancing cognitive function, aids in relieving menstrual cramps, strengthen the immune system and may help alleviate digestive issues. As an herbal tea, lemon balm tea does not contain caffeine. This may explain why it may be beneficial for calming upset nerves and relax and sooth any anxiety or disruptions within the body.

Cautions Use only as prescribed by your herbalist, naturopath, or qualified practitioner. Lemon balm may cause sedation. The herb could possibly interact and disturb the system if mixed with other supplements and medications, such as sedatives, thyroid medication, chemotherapy (like tamoxifen and irinotecan), warfarin, glaucoma medication, and drugs that affect serotonin and GABA. Do not mix lemon balm while drinking alcohol. It isn’t recommended to take lemon balm in high dosages or long term. If you’re undergoing a surgical procedure, do not drink lemon balm tea two weeks before it, because the tea’s sedative nature may negatively interact with the anesthesia.

You can findTraditional Medicinals Lemon Balm Teain almost every grocery store (Vons, Ralphs, Whole Foods, Safeway, Albertsons..etc.,) or you can buy it online through Amazon here. BONUS –One of my absolute favorite teas came from my dear friend when she came back from the UK and visited me in Mexico. Clipper’s Snore & Peace Tea blendof Lemon Balm, Lavender and Chamomile is LIFE. I love mixing in some steamed coconut milk or almond milk and sipping on this after a long day.

When looking for natural ways to heal and ease any ailment or discomfort you may be experiencing, it’s always important to do your research and find what works well for you, your body, and your symptoms.

Disclaimer:

Although I am speaking about my own personal experience, I am not a licensed therapist or nutritionist. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your mental or physical health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.

There are affiliate links within this post. As an affiliate, I receive a small percentage of certain items purchased. These small commissions earned help keep Activated Living ad-free. Please see affiliate page and privacy policy for full details.

The second episode of The Activated Living Podcast is here and today it’s all about stress and simple ways to help navigate stressful situations and managing anxiety and stress. No one is immune to stress. Stress effects all of us in one form or another. Throughout the episode I talk about major tips to help you navigate your stress in the three main categories of Mind Body and Soul.

Podcast Episode 2- Navigating Stress

Navigating Stress Podcast Show Notes:

1:32 – Stress is your body reaction to a harmful situation, whether or not it is truly harmful.

ABOUT

Activated Living is a holistic lifestyle website and podcast that integrates everything Mind, Body, and Soul. This brand was born out of a desire to celebrate a holistic, healthy, authentic life that is approachable to anyone in any season of their life. Nourish your body + feed your soul with Activated Living.

ABOUT

Activated Living is a holistic lifestyle website and podcast that bridges the gap between the Mind, Body and Soul connection. This brand was born out of a desire to celebrate a holistic, healthy, authentic life that is approachable to anyone in any season of their life. Nourish your body + feed your soul with Activated Living.